Epistemological Chirality in Landscape Architecture Pedagogy: A Dual-Method Studio at Angkor Wat Temple, Cambodia

Shaira Reyes; Nappy Navarra

Authors

Shaira Reyes College of Architecture, University of the Philippines Diliman, Quezon City, Philippines / Institute of Architecture and Fine Arts, Far Eastern University, Manila, Philippines https://orcid.org/0009-0003-9124-0869
Nappy Navarra College of Architecture, University of the Philippines Diliman, Quezon City, Philippines

Keywords:

Landscape architecture, Pedagogy, Mixed-method, Quality of Life

Abstract

This study introduces epistemological chirality, a framework for examining two knowledge systems that are comparable but non-superimposable: a Western-centric quantitative approach and an Indigenous-informed qualitative approach. Eight students in two teams completed 10-minute scans at four selected stations. Group A used modified SOPARC. Group B used narrative inquiry, sensory mapping, and micro-interviews. Analysis using a Chiral Matrix and Chiral Divergence Index (CDI) revealed convergence at ritual nodes, complementarity in transitional and construction spaces, and dissonance where counts suggested activity, but narratives conveyed emptiness. In this setting, divergence presented a pedagogical resource for reflexivity, ethical translation, empathy, and responsive design.

Author Biographies

Shaira Reyes, College of Architecture, University of the Philippines Diliman, Quezon City, Philippines / Institute of Architecture and Fine Arts, Far Eastern University, Manila, Philippines

Shaira E. Reyes earned her BS in Architecture from Far Eastern University and a Master in Tropical Landscape Architecture from the University of the Philippines Diliman, where she is currently pursuing her PhD in the Designed and Built Environment. She serves as an instructor at FEU’s Institute of Architecture and Fine Arts and is the Coordinator of the FEU Career Development and Placement Office. Alongside her academic role, she has professional experience managing hospitality, commercial, and residential projects, integrating practice and teaching to guide students through academic and career pathways.

Nappy Navarra, College of Architecture, University of the Philippines Diliman, Quezon City, Philippines

Nappy L. Navarra finished his BA Political Science and B in Landscape Architecture from the University of the Philippines Diliman. He completed his Master in Tropical Landscape Architecture degree in the same institution. He proceeded to take his Doctor of Engineering, Major in Environmental Planning and Design from the University of Tokyo.

He currently serves as Professor in the College of Architecture, University of the Philippines-Diliman. Aside from handling teaching loads, he is the present Coordinator of the Integrated Graduate Program and the Coordinator of the Environmental Landscapes Studio Laboratory.

Aside from his practice in the academe, he is involved in design consultancy and projects in landscape planning and design that aim to create positive impact to the environment and to the community.

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Epistemological Chirality in Landscape Architecture Pedagogy

A Dual-Method Studio at Angkor Wat Temple, Cambodia

Authors

Keywords:

Abstract

Author Biographies

Shaira Reyes, College of Architecture, University of the Philippines Diliman, Quezon City, Philippines / Institute of Architecture and Fine Arts, Far Eastern University, Manila, Philippines

Nappy Navarra, College of Architecture, University of the Philippines Diliman, Quezon City, Philippines

References

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